Lago di Misurina Hike: Complete Guide

The Lago di Misurina Hike is one of the easiest and most rewarding walks in the Dolomites. This scenic trail circles the lake, offering beautiful views of the surrounding mountains, including the famous Tre Cime di Lavaredo.

Although Lago di Misurina is often visited as a quick photo stop, taking the time to walk around the lake lets you experience it from a completely different perspective.

In this guide, you’ll find everything you need to plan Lago di Misurina Hike, including trail information, parking, how long it takes, the best time to visit, and helpful tips to make the most of your walk.

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INTERESTING FACTS ABOUT LAGO DI MISURINA

Lago di Misurina is one of the most famous lakes in the Dolomites. Sitting at an altitude of 1,754 meters, it is known for its crystal-clear water and stunning mountain backdrop. On calm days, the lake perfectly reflects the surrounding peaks, making it one of the most photogenic spots in northern Italy.

Here are a few intersting facts before you start walking around Lago di Misurina.

It is the largest natural lake in the Cadore region.
The lake is surrounded by legendary peaks. As you walk around the lake, you’ll enjoy views of some of the Dolomites’ most impressive mountains. Besides the nearby Tre Cime di Lavaredo, you can also spot Cadini di Misurina.
It is famous for the Legend of Princess Misurina. According to local folklore, the lake was created by the tears of a giant mourning his daughter, Princess Misurina.

PRACTICAL INFORMATION ABOUT THE HIKE

HOW TO GET TO THE TRAILHEAD?

The trail starts directly from the lake, making it one of the easiest hikes in the Dolomites to access. The trail follows a path around the lake, so you can begin your walk from several points along the shoreline. Just follow the signs towards the lake until you reach it.

Parking: There is a big parking on the southern side of the lake, right next to the lake. Parking is paid, and you need to buy a ticket from the parking meter before starting your walk. During the summer months, the parking lot can fill up quickly, you’ll just have to be patient and wait until someone leaves.

Rent your car with Auto Europe.

If you’re using public transport, buses connect Lago di Misurina with Cortina d’Ampezzo, Dobbiaco (Toblach), and Auronzo di Cadore, making the hike accessible even without a car.

EQUIPMENT NEEDED

The Lago di Misurina trail is an easy and mostly flat walk, so you don’t need any special hiking equipment. A comfortable pair of walking or hiking shoes is recommended, especially if the path is wet after rain.´

Don’t forget to bring a bottle of water, sunscreen, and a camera. There are several benches and scenic spots around the lake where you can stop, relax, and enjoy the views.

BEST TIME TO VISIT LAKE MISURINA

The best time to walk around Lake Misurina is between late spring and early autumn, when the trail is free of snow and the weather is usually pleasant. Summer offers the warmest temperatures and the best chance of seeing the lake’s famous on a calm day.

Unfortunately for us, the day we visited Lake Misurina was quite clouded so, even though the lake was beautiful, we didn’t manage to see reflections or the famous mountains that surround it.

LAGO DI MISURINA HIKE

HIKE STATS

Trail Start/End – Parking lot at the southern part of the lake (exact location on the map at the end of this blog)

Distance – 2,7 km

Elevation Gain – 94 m

Level – Easy

Route Type – Circular route

Estimated Time Needed – 1 hour (including plenty of time to stop for photos and enjoy the views)

Best Time To Visit – June to September to ensure the best weather conditions.

HIKE MAP

I always use the AllTrails App during my hikes. The app has a GPX map that can help you stay on the right trail during your hikes. For this hike, we followed the Lago di Misurina – Col Sant’ Angelo trail.

MY EXPERIENCE WALKING AROUD LAGO DI MISURINA - STEP BY STEP GUIDE

Eastern side of the lake

After finding a parking spot at the parking, we set to walk around the lake. We walked the lake counter clockwise, which means that first we walked on the eastern side of the lake.

This side of the lake is a lot more peaceful and pleasant. The path is lined with trees, creating a mix of shade and open viewpoints. Along the way, we found several benches where we stop to admire the scenery.

Western side of the lake

After crossing to the western shore, the scenery will become more impressive. This side of the lake offers uninterrupted views of Tre Cime di Lavaredo, the Cadini di Misurina, and the surrounding forests. Unfortunately for us, since it was a cloudy afternoon, we only got to see the lower part of these mountains. It was pretty, but not as impressive as it could have been.

On the western side, the trail passes several hotels, cafés, and restaurants, so if you are hungry or want to stop for a coffee, this is the place. You will not be able to beat these views.

OTHER THINGS TO DO NEAR LAKE MISURINA

Lago di Misurina is the perfect side activity to do after a full day of hiking the Tre Cime Di Lavaredo and Cadini di Misurina. So you will most probably combine it with these activities.

However, if you are looking for a chill day without a lot of hiking, a good alternative is to go to Lago Antorno for a swim. It is the perfect activity to cool down on a warm summer day.

WHERE TO STAY NEAR LAGO DI MISURINA?

Looking for accommodation near the lake? I get it, drive for a long time to reach your accommodation is exhausting. Here are two suggestions that are relatively close to Lago di Misurina.

Hotel Croda Rossa

Hotel Croda Rossa is a charming hotel with a great location. It is located only 13 km away from Rifugio Auronzo. The hotel is located on a beautiful valley with great views of Monte Cristallo. Rooms were spacious and comfortable. The garden is perfect for relaxing after a day of hiking in the Dolomites.

We stayed at this hotel for 6 nights and had a fantastic day here. The only downside to this hotel was the food.

Grand Hotel Misurina

Why not stay in one of the impressive hotels near Lago di Misurina. Grand Hotel Misurina is the perfect option, you will wake up to some of the most impressive mountain views! In addition, rooms are equipped with everything you may need and there is even a spa!

Photos from Booking.com

FAQ ABOUT LAGO DI MISURINA

HOW LONG DOES THE LAGO DI MISURINA HIKE TAKE?

The complete loop takes about 45 minutes to 1 hour, depending on your pace and how often you stop to take photos. If you want to enjoy a coffee or simply relax by the lake, plan to spend around 1,5 to 2 hours.

IS THE WALK DIFFICULT?

Not at all! The walk around Lake Misurina is super easy and mostly flat.

CAN YOU WALK ALL THE WAY AROUND LAGO DI MISURINA?

Yes. A well-maintained path circles the entire lake, allowing you to complete a scenic loop while enjoying beautiful views from every angle.

MAP WITH ALL LOCATIONS

HOW TO USE THIS MAP: Click the star next to the map title to add this map to your google maps account. To view it on your phone while traveling, open Google Maps, click on the menu button and go to “Your Places”, click on Maps and you’ll see this map in your list.

FINAL THOUGHTS

Lago di Misurina proves that you don’t need a long or challenging trail to experience the beauty of the Dolomites. With its crystal-clear lake, stunning mountain views, and easy walking path, it’s a hike that almost anyone can enjoy.

Whether you’re visiting on its own or combining it with nearby highlights like Tre Cime di Lavaredo or the Cadini di Misurina viewpoint, this scenic walk is well worth adding to your itinerary. It’s the perfect place to slow down, enjoy the peaceful surroundings, and take in another beautiful landscape in the Dolomites.

LAGO DI MISURINA HIKE: COMPLETE GUIDE TO THE SCENIC WALK AROUND THE LAKE

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